Wednesday 9 April 2014

Big Announcement and Celebrations

Well, it's lovely to be back and saying hello to all you lovelies once again after my very enjoyable break, and also to be saying a big thank you for all your good wishes before I left! It's also very nice to be coming back with a lovely new header that my lovely daughter Tracy has designed for me - what do you think of it?

Some of you may have heard me hint, both in previous posts and in comments I've left on various blogs, that I may be one of the oldest craft blogger around - maybe even THE oldest - and you probably didn't take me seriously anyway . . . . . well I'm here today to tell you that the reason Jeff and I went off for a wee break was to celebrate our 50th Wedding Anniversary!!! No, that's not a typo, I did say 50th and now you may be thinking that I must be around 70 years of age and you'd be quite right for I was almost twenty when I married and will be 70 on my next birthday in May.

When I was a youngster it was quite normal to look on seventy as being quite ancient, but now I've almost reached that milestone I'm quite happy to say it's not old at all and although I don't quite know how one should feel at seventy, I can say that I don't feel too much different to how I was at fifty! Please don't think of me as being old for I'm so young at heart as to be quite childish at times and I have no intention of growing up in a hurry!

I have so much to show and tell this time that I hope you don't feel bored by the time you're half way through . . . . . let's have the little bits of craft first shall we? Not a lot this time as you would understand! This is another of Wink's Mandala patterns but I changed the last couple or so rounds as an experiment just to prove to myself that I could . . . . .



Then there's the little pink heart: I really fell in love with the gorgeous hearts on Sandra's blog, specifically the post entitled 'The Most Precious Gift', and although my little attempt is not exactly the same, that is where the idea came from, thanks so much Sandra!



Now would you like to have a little look at our beautiful city Perth? First the night lights, taken from the balcony of our hotel room which was gifted to us by our lovely family for our five nights stay up there! Talk about being spoiled!



And below are pics of the same buildings taken from near the water's edge in daytime - from the South Perth Foreshore . . . . .



In the same area still, this is where you can catch the ferry to take you across the river to the Barrack Street Jetty on Perth side.



Now if you were to turn your back to the water and look across the street you would see 'Cocos' restaurant, which is where we were so nicely treated to dinner on our special day - I haven't included a pic of it as there was a building project going on in the area at the time and I would just hate to detract from the beauty of the actual building that houses Cocos! Fair enough?


Next we travel to Fremantle - most people would be familiar with the name in connection with the America's Cup all those years ago - there are so many wonderful buildings down there and this is just a small example of them . . . . .






And the Fremantle Boat Harbour



We met with our eldest grandson at one of the popular cafe/restaurants - The Kiosk at Floreat - for breakfast on Sunday morning and that was so nice for we've been missing him since he moved to the big smoke several months ago! Isn't he a handsome young man!



Later that morning we joined our daughter and SIL and took a drive up the coast in, would you believe, the pink Thunderbird - well, in fact Jeff went with Paul, and Tracy and I travelled in her gorgeous sports job (both vehicles are two-seaters) - and you wonder why I claim to be still young at heart? My family keep me young!!!



The casual cafe where we ate that day at Hillary's boat harbour provided us with a table number when the food was ordered - and what was the number you ask? 50!!!

The Moet wasn't provided there though, that was another surprise that Tracy arranged in our hotel room for our return after a day out sight-seeing - did I mention that we were spoiled? What a wonderful family we have!



There is one more pic to show - how could I be in the metro area and not visit Calico and Ivy at  Glyde Street in Mosman - with Tracy of course! I was so tempted by so many beautiful fabrics but opted for some gorgeous Rowan wool/cotton yarn instead . . . . .



What a break - such a fantastic time from start to finish, and so many thanks to both our daughters and spouses for all the wonderful treats, surprises, and celebrations!


And now my friends I thank you for sticking in to the end of this long post for I really wanted to share with you about the wonderful times we had! And by the way, my dear hubby keeps telling everyone he has a medal coming as big as a frying pan for putting up with me all those years, but I say it's coming for me - what do you think?  

I am way behind in blog following and have been really missing all your posts but will catch up soon! In the meantime I wish you all well and send you very best wishes for happy days - 


with my love,
Joy xoxo

117 comments:

  1. Well Mum, I just had to be the first person to comment!

    Your post is a wonderful synopsis of the fabulous times and events we were lucky enough to share with you during your special Anniversary weekend. Congratulations again to you and Dad on 50 years of married bliss! I am so proud to be your daughter, and feel very lucky and privileged to have such beautiful, caring, happy and youthful parents.

    Of course we were delighted to help you celebrate over your time in Perth, and are missing you already!

    Talk soon, love you so much,
    Trace

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    1. Wow Trace, what a beautiful message, thank you! You made the whole event very special for us and we delight in your company always!
      We're so missing you too!
      Loads of love, Mum xo

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  2. What a photo rich blog entry with so many different kinds of subjects! Congratulations on your 50th anniversary! We are from very close vintage years! My birthday is also in May!
    I love your Mandala from one of Wink's patterns. The colours are lovely too. Well done for the crocheted popcorn heart! It's nice to add a little variation to the original pattern taken from Ravelry.
    I love that pink Thunderbird and you have just bought some yarn in a similar colour!

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    1. Hello again Sandra - I am so looking forward to catching up with your latest post - I'm sure it'll help settle me again after all the wandering about! Ah, so you are most likely a gemini too - I find it a bit difficult at times, how about you?
      Thank you so much for all your lovely comments! x Joy

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  3. Oh Joy...I knew this was going to be good...and sweet girl, it was a fabulous post! First off, a very happy 50th wedding anniversary to you and your sweet hubby! What an adorable couple you are! (Your cutie-pie grandson is the spitting image of your husband!)...The photos of your trip are just beautiful, Joy. Gosh, it's nice to be spoiled sometimes! What a lovely trip...and that pink Thunderbird is gorgeous!... Another beautiful mandala under your belt, Joy. I love the edging you put on this one, and that pretty pink puffy heart is so precious. I need to make some this instant! Thanks so much for the link to Sandra's blog. :) ... I'm so happy you had such a lovely time celebrating your very special anniversary! Sending love and big hug too! xo ♥ Paulette

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    1. Ah Sweet Paulette, you say the nicest things and I always get a thrill when I find your messages, thank you! I'm so glad you enjoyed the pics and yes, the Thunderbird is a real head-turner! I'll be looking forward to seeing some pretty little hearts on your blog then and I'm sure you'll have fun making them - the edging on Sandra's is absolutely gorgeous and so lace-like but the one I did is just a plain picot edge. Talk soon, much love to you my sweet friend, and warm heart hugs, Joy xo

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  4. ...I completely forgot to say how adorable your new banner is! xo

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  5. wow Joy!!! first of all congrats on the celebrations, and I would never have thought that you were 70 or at least going to be soon. Your blog "feels" young and now looking at the photos you do too! in fact you and your dh make a very lovely couple. So wishing you all the v ery best on your huge milestone anniversary, and I really enjoyed the post! ps love the banner too!

    hugs krissie ( who is not blogging for now)

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    1. Hello Krissie, I've been missing you and hope everything okay with you and yours! Thanks so much for your lovely message and compliments - very gratefully received! Do take care and come back soon, love, Joy xo

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  6. Happy Anniversary!! You two make such a cute couple. Your time away sounds like it couldn't have been better, and you were spoiled, yes, but I think you probably earned that privilege. It's so nice to see a happy marriage such as yours, and your children and their spouses obviously care very much for you and your husband. Wendy x (ps...love the T-bird!!)

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    1. Wendy, thanks so much for your sweetness! Jeff and I have been most fortunate to reach such a milestone and to have such a wonderful family too. Life isn't always easy and of course there are lots of gives and takes over the years - we've been blessed!
      Happy days to you and yours, love, Joy xo

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  7. Looking good Ms Joy for such a young age!!! ( wink, wink ) What a lovely couple you two make. Thanks for sharing such a wonderful celebration with all of us! Cheers to your Anniversary!!!!
    Love the new blog header...it's perfect!!
    xx Shari

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    1. Haha, you're always so funny Shari - my dear Mum still looked young in face when in her eighties but I'm saying nothing about the body at that stage, or at my stage either! Thank goodness we wear clothes haha!!!
      Thanks so much for your good wishes m'dear and I'm glad you like the new header! xo Joy

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  8. Hello JOY, Happy Belated Anniversary.. WOW did you all have a super great time celebrating.. I had No idea Perth was such a hugs city.. I really like the looks of Fremantle.. What a lovely looking antique town.. The building are all so unique.. I would of loved to stroll along the streets of this town.. Your daughter is very lovely. The Pink Thunderbird is great. I have never seen one before. What a lovely new stash of yarns you received.. Lovely photo of you and your DH.. I wish you and your Dh many many more anniversary... Hugs Judy

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    1. Dear Judy, it's so good to hear from you again and thanks so much for your lovely message! Yes, Freo is a quaint old place with its magic buildings, and Perth is so beautiful and clean - both lovely places to visit with lots to do and see. The TBird is an American import and my dear SIL is very proud of it - very elegant car!
      I hope you and yours are well over there? Warm hugs my friend, Joy xo

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  9. Happy Anniversary Joy!! and no seventy is not old at all, you certainly don't look 70 anyway, it's how we feel inside that counts. Thank you for sharing your lovely pictures with us and I love your new blog header. Your mandadala is lovely, so nice to have you back. xxx

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    1. Thank you for your sweet welcome back and good wishes message Linda, it's good to be catching up again but I'm sure it'll take ages to be up to date with all you lovely blogging friends and your goodies again! I trust all is well with you and yours! xo Joy

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  10. Congratulations, and what a wonderful way to celebrate - with family. Love the new yarn too xx

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    1. How lovely to hear from you Cheryl - I hope to catch up with you soon and in the meantime thanks so much for popping in and giving me a sweet surprise! xx Joy

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  11. Congratulations and well done! Looks like you had a wonderful time too x

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    1. Hiya Hawthorn, and thanks so much - it was indeed a wonderful time, happy memories to keep! xo Joy

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  12. Happy 50th wedding anniversary, looks like you and hubby had a wonderful time.I like you attutude to life and age is just a number, your as young as you feel.Your crochet pieces are gourgeous has usual x

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    1. Hello Joy, and many thanks - yeah, it's only a date on the calendar isn't it - but I don't quite understand how the body changed shape while I slept, haha!!! xo Joy

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  13. P.S Love the blog make over

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    1. Thanks so much Joy - my Tracy does a fantastic job! x

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  14. Happy Anniversary Joy!! I am so glad that you have had so many happy years of marriage and wish you many more. Your new header is lovely too by the way! xx

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    1. Thanks so much Amy - we'll continue to work at it as life goes on and changes happen - can't give up now at this late stage eh, haha! Glad you like the new header - the little bird is reminiscent of our beautiful blue wrens which I love! xx Joy

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  15. Happy anniversary Joy and Jeff, you certainly celebrated in style. You visited some lovely looking places and with champers and flash cars I see no hint of you growing old. You certainly don't look your age either. Your daughter has done a great image for your blog.
    All the best
    S xx

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    1. Many thanks Sarah - a lovely message and I really appreciate your thoughtfulness!
      I don't know that I could keep up the pace of the last week or so but it'll be very nice trying!!! love, Joy xo

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  16. Wow! Congratulations on sticking with the hubby for all those years! You should both be very proud of the achievement , long marriages are under rated we should be shouting your love and commitment from the rooftops. You are both quite youthful, and your family sounds as adorable as you are. Do you get a telegram from the queen for this, she ponders? The photos from Perth and Fremantle are lovely, I must get over to that side of the country one day! I wish you and your hubby many many many more healthy and happy times ahead. Your attitude will always keep you young and surrounded by love, and thank you for sharing such wonderful times. Xxxxxx

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    1. Aw Susan, you are a darling! Thank you so much for such a beautiful message, I've taken every word to heart! No, I'm afraid the queen was very busy the last few weeks baby sitting and the telegram escaped her mind, but messages such as yours and from my other friends here more than make up for any official recognition!
      I love your balance of humour and seriousness Susan, you're a real gem, thank you!
      Love and hugs, Joy xoxo

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  17. Happy anniversary! I'm so happy for you and Jeff. It looks like you had a wonderful trip. I was fairly young when I got married as well, 23 which is on the young side for my generation. I can only hope that I'll still be around to see our fiftieth anniversary too. Thanks for sharing your happy milestone!

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    1. Jennifer, thank you so much for your sweet message! I'm hoping with you my dear, and all things being equal, as they say, there should be no reason why you and Big Bear won't be celebrating such a milestone together! Your wonderful partnership and family values would certainly say yes to that - I'm just sorry I can't expect to be around to congratulate you!!! xo

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  18. Happy anniversary, and you certainly dont look anywhere near 70! I love that pink heart - will have to look up that pattern...

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    1. OH thank you so much, I really appreciate your lovely message! I hope you give the pink heart a go, they really are so pretty! xo

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  19. Happy Anniversary! I agree with the africanaussie that you don't look anywhere near 70. I do love your projects too and I enjoyed seeing Perth & Freemantle through your lens. I am a fan of the traditional Aussie buildings like the Univ. of Notre Dame building & others like it. Though I've been to Australia 3 times (it is a long trip for us from Canada), I have never been to Western Australia.

    You sound like you have a wonderful family and it is so nice to see a couple that has honoured their vows for an astonishing 50 years. I can gather that your other family members are a huge blessing to you too and it was so nice of them to organize a wonderful celebration for you and your hubs. It was nice too to see your grandson spending time with you both. Hugs. xx

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    1. Thanks so much Joyful, and especially for the lovely compliment!
      There are some fantastic buildings in Fremantle and some of the beautiful lace and stone work is quite magnificent! Next visit to Aussie I hope you can make it over to our area, I'm certain you'd love it!
      Yes, we truly are blessed by our wonderful family Joyful, and have always been close to our grandsons too. Life is good to us! Warm hugs and thank you, Joy xo

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  20. Happy Anniversary lovely Joy, it looks like you had a wonderful trip and a good family meet up. You in no way look like you are turning 70 this year, my Mum will also be turning 70 in the Autumn and she still very much young at heart too, at the moment we are trying to think up 70 things she's always wanted to do. So far we have custard pieing someone (my brother in law has volenteered ) and after watching the Winter Olympics snow boarding, although she thinks she is to old not to mention hot air ballooning. Just to name a few. Enjoy that new yarn xx

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    1. Hello Clare and thank you for such a lovely message and all your kindness! Congratulations to your Mum on her big seven oh when it comes around, and how funny to be looking for unusual and exciting ways to celebrate her special day - the idea of the custard pie throwing had me laughing - what a daring and brave BIL you have, lol! Keep well lovely! Joy xo

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  21. Happy Anniversary Joy, what a lovely post! Your daughters lovely comment bought a tear to my eye. Love the new look blog. Look forward to seeing what you create with that gorgeous yarn. S xo

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    1. Thanks so much for your lovely message Sarah - yes, Tracy's comments moved me too, she's such a lovely sweet girl and we're so proud of her and her achievements!
      I'm very happy with the new look too, and was really ready for it! I'm still working out what to do with that lovely yarn but I will put it to good use sometime soon! xo Joy

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  22. Hello my lovely friend and how you have move me beyond tears today too!! I am so proud of you and as you already now I think you are so hip and who can argue after redding this fabulous post and seeing these gorgeous photos. May I say you both look absolutely fabulous and not a day over 50. You look so very happy and how lucky you are to have shared such a beautiful life together, what I call the gift of life - life in the hands of love, what more can we want. Your son looks so much like you both and dare I say hip may just have to be mentioned again, how cool is that car!!! That is travelling in style and then to top it with Moet, my ultimate fave!! It really looks as if you had the best of time my dear and I am so very happy for you and yes also very proud of you for deserving the biggest medal out there, there is no doubt in my mind. What a beautiful message Tracey left you here on your blog, you truly are blessed dearest Joy. I got your message this morning and curiosity got the better of me. I'm in a wifi spot for a day or so then out of it again for another five. Enjoying the holiday thus far, in fact it is just sooooo wonderful to be with my family, there are no words, I am sure you understand. Sending you so much love and a big hug too!! Xxxx

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    1. Ah it's so fantastic to hear from you lovely Hannapat, and thank you for taking time out from your holiday to contact me with such a beautiful message! I must say 'Hip' has such a nice ring to it and a great compliment too, thank you! I'll try to live up to it as long as I possibly can, haha! Yes, fifty years is a long time and do you think Jeff and I should share the medal or should I tell him you think it should be mine? No, I won't get you into trouble!
      Our grandson is a wonderful young man and yes I agree, there certainly is a family likeness - he just turned nineteen last month, the world is his oyster!
      Tracy's message was very special to us, my voice broke down when trying to read it to Jeff, I was so touched by it and her!!
      I am very happy to hear your holiday is going so well, you're right, being with your family is the best, I sure do understand! Do take care of your health my dear friend and keep on having the happiest of times with those you love. Much love and warm healing hugs! xoxo

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  23. Ps love the mandala and the pretty heart you crocheted and can't wait to see what you do with your new cotton yarn lolxxx

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    1. I'm glad you like them, and I have no idea yet what I'm going to do with the yarn - isn't that exciting - I could go any whichway! xoxo

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  24. Oh Joy, what a wonderful post - CONGRATULATIONS! I couldn't be happier for you, and you indeed were properly - and rightly - spoiled with your trip and celebrations! Such happy words and photos here, and you are a true role model, you and hubby look so healthy and happy (and not a day over 50!). My grandma, at 89, looks years younger, and she says smile lines aren't as harsh on the face as frown lines, so obviously you have had lots of smiles! (I'm 45 this December, so I'm hoping I take after Grandma genetically!). Love your yarn and crochet, the heart is so lovely...and well done Tracy for creating a beautiful new header! Sending BIG hugs to you and yours, Chrissie xxx

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    1. Hello Chrissie and many thanks for such a lovely message - once again: you are such a darling! Your Grandma has a great attitude, not to mention her wonderful abilities, she's a gem and you are already taking after her in so many ways, lovely! Lots of love, and have a great weekend! Joy xoxo

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  25. You're not old at all - and when I grow up I hope to be just like you! :D

    A very Happy Anniversary to you both. What a wonderful trip full of lovely architecture and good company. (And yarn.)

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    1. P.S. The new header is perfect.

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    2. You made me laugh Sue - I think neither of us want to grow up do we! Thanks so much for your good wishes and sweet comments! Jx

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  26. First of all Congrats to both of you! 50 years together and still going strong is amazing. Joy you and your husband look fantastic, so happy and soooooo young! I am thrilled you got to go away and celebrate, and yes your grandson is very handsome.
    Hugs to you and welcome home, I missed you.
    Meredith

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    1. Meredith, thanks so much for your good wishes and lovely compliments too! It really was a great time!
      I've missed you too and am now playing 'catch-up' - darn, I missed your giveaway draw while I was gone! You'll have to do another one now, haha!
      Warm hugs to you too,
      Joy xo

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  27. What a super post, Joy!

    Firstly and most importantly, a very happy 50th wedding anniversary. Gosh, don't your husband and grandson look alike?! A very happy forthcoming birthday to you too, you spring chicken!

    Perth looks just beautiful.

    Age is a funny thing. I'm 42 but still feel like a vulnerable young girl inside. I get quite a shock sometimes when I notice new crinkles and grey hairs. My own Mum turned 70 a couple of weeks ago and, to be honest, she has worn a shroud of 'old age' for ten years. It's a source of great sadness and frustration for me and my brothers and our families. There's no physical reason. She's given up all her hobbies - painting, knitting, her dolls house - everything really. I was beginning to worry that I'd end up the same.

    You've reminded me that my Mum is perhaps the exception rather than the rule and I thank you for that. You look absolutely fabulous and are an inspiration, my friend.

    Heather xx

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    1. Hello Heather - thank you so much for all your good wishes - and I do like 'spring chicken'!

      I am so sorry to hear of your Mum's outlook on her life, that is so sad - she sounds like she may be suffering depression, but I guess you and family would have covered that already.
      I understand how difficult it must be for all of you to watch this happening and yet feel unable to persuade her to do a turnaround. I pray blessings on her!

      I would agree with you that your Mum's behaviour seems exceptional - certainly in my experience - and I feel honoured by your lovely compliments towards me, but your young attitude to life won't ever allow you to take on this outlook Heather - you are YOUNG in heart and mind and having the experience of seeing your Mum like she is will make you even more determined to stay as you are!

      When all's said and done, we make our own decisions in life and your Mum has obviously made hers so to my mind the best you can do is love and allow and maybe she will decide to make changes - we can but hope and pray!

      Wishing you and your family the very best, with my love,
      Joy xo

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  28. Hello lovely Joy! What a happy post, full of good things. Many, many congratulations on your wedding anniversary, that is so wonderful and I love the photos of you and your husband. It looks like you had a lovely break together and thank you for sharing all your lovely photos with us. I really like the mandala and the pretty heart you have made and your new yarn is gorgeous...beautiful colours and it looks so soft. Have a lovely rest of the week!
    Marianne x

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    1. Sweet Marianne, thank you so much, it's been a wonderful time made more special by all the lovely messages I've received, such as yours! Warm hugs to you m'dear! Joy xo

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  29. Hi Joy, welcome home and congratulations! What a special time you have had :-) I visited Perth when I was 6 (we were on our way from the UK to NZ)...I remember very bright sunlight, swans, sparkly water and mum buying me summer sandals as I was typically in shoes and socks. Anyway, that is by the by.... I loved reading your post and wanted to give you both a hug. You constantly instill love, enthusiasm, inspiration and encouragement both on your lovely blog and in the comments you leave elsewhere. Thank you :-)
    With love and blessings to you and your family at this special time,
    Tracey xxx

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    1. Ah Tracey, so nice to hear that you have such fond memories of Perth from such an early age! It is a lovely city!
      I am more than happy to receive your hug, as is Jeff, thank you, how sweet you are! And thank you also for your very kind comments - I really care about people and want the very best for everyone which, I'm certain, are the sentiments at the heart of all of we fellow bloggers - don't we belong to such a happy helpful community! I am so grateful for it!
      Sending love and warm hugs, with thanks, Joy xo

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  30. Congrats on 50 years and glad you were spoiled by the family. Never been to Perth, but enjoyed your photos and dialogue. Take care.

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    1. Many thanks Susan, it's lovely to hear from you again and I am happy you enjoyed my post! See you again soon, hugs, Joy x

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  31. Hello Joy, warmest wishes to you and your husband on your 50th wedding anniversary, what a wonderful milestone - congratulations. It looks as though you had such a lovely time on your break and you have some great photos. I love your crochet and the little heart especially. Can't wait to see what your new Rowan yarn becomes. Enjoy the rest of your week.
    Jane x

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    1. Thanks so much Jane, it's been a busy but happy time as well as being very meaningful for us and our family. See you soon in my catch-up race around blogland! Happy weekend to you and yours, Joy xo

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  32. Congratulations Joy, what a wonderful milestone to celebrate your 50th anniversary. Thanks for your very sweet comment on my latest post yesterday- I'm definitely going to be taking a break over the next few weeks!

    Jen xx

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    1. My thanks to you Jen - 50 years is a bit difficult to believe really, even for me! Take good care of yourself, hugs, Joy xo

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  33. Congrats on your anniversary, just found you via Chrissies link up. Those photos of Perth brought lovely memories back - most of my family live there these days. Love your mandala.

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    1. Hello Zana, how lovely to see you here and thank you for your good wishes and for becoming a 'follower'; I'll be popping over your place for a browse soon! Joy x

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  34. Many congratulations on your 50th anniversary, it looks as if you had a wonderful celebration.
    Your mandala is beautiful.

    ukcitycrafter@live.co.uk

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    1. Hello and thank you for your good wishes and sweet message - do pop in again sometime! Joy x

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  35. Happy Anniversary and congratulations for reaching such a special milestone. You sound like such a sweet lady and I'm so glad you enjoyed your holiday. I think you each deserve a medal for taking care of each other all these years. It's to be commended.
    Beca

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    1. Hello Beca, your message is very sweet thank you and I agree with you, the medal should be for both of us! Welcome to my place and as my latest follower, thank you! Joy x

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  36. Happy Anniversary Joy! Your crochet is beautiful and that car is fabulous :) I really love the soft colours of your new wool. ♥

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    1. I'm glad you popped in Louise, thanks so much for your lovely comments! Joy x

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  37. Dear Joy, Congratulations on your anniversary - 50 years, amazing. I can honestly say you don't look anywhere near 70, and I've never considered you 'old'. I work in a public library and I'm convinced it's all a matter of attitude - we have 50 year olds who seem old and 80 year olds who seem youthful!
    Your daughter has done a fabulous job on your blog header - I love it. XX

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    1. Thanks so much Suzanne, you really are very kind and I am touched by your lovely message! I also think we're only as old as we think we are - maybe I could aim for 40 next, haha! Yes, Tracy is a very talented girl, we're very proud of her, thank you! Joy xo

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  38. Hi Joy, congratulations to you and your hubby! You were very spoiled by your family but you do indeed deserve it. You are an inspiration to me with your energy, creativeness and all the love you spread around blog land! It is wonderful to see your photos - I wonder if ever in my life time I will visit Australia?? We'll see. My eldest daughters have a half sister that lives there so they are more likely to go. Congratulations again my dear, enjoy hooking your new yarn! Sam xxx

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    1. Hiya Sam, so many thanks to you for your good wishes, sweet thoughts and compliments - you touch my heart! It turns out that quite a few blogger friends have connections in Australia, one way or another. I think it would be wonderful if you came over and we met up! I would love that! Have a happy week my friend, Joy xo

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  39. My Lovely Joy, what a fabulous post - thank you for sharing such wonderful photographs of your special celebration and your fabulous family. You seem to have had the most perfect time together and this special time is so well deserved and shows just how much you are both loved and cared for by your family. It doesn't matter how much money or how many possessions we all have because at the end of it all it is the people who love us and who we love which make our lives so special. You are a very special lady to me Joy and always will be and you look absolutely fabulous with your very handsome husband. Congratulations to you both. Sending you all my hugs and loves
    Dorothy
    :-)xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

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    1. Lovely Dorothy, what a wise and beautiful message! Thank you my dear friend! I know your message comes straight from your heart - and it is received by mine in a most welcoming fashion - all warm and pink and fuzzy! Loads of love and warmest wishes for the best in life coming your way lovely! Joy xoxo

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  40. Hello Joy, what a fabulous post, and many, many congratulations on your Wedding Anniversary., and such a brilliant holiday, your family are the best!!! What memories you have to treasure.
    Joy, your crochet madela is beautiful all soft and gentle, and your little heart is perfect.
    Thank you for shariing your wonderful holiday with us.
    luv
    irene
    xxxx

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    1. Irene, thank you so much, your message is beautiful and I really appreciate having it!
      Love, Joy xo

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  41. A joy-filled post as always! I do so always enjoy visiting with you & reading the tales you have to tell and seeing your lovely pics. Congratulations on your 50th anniversary and I wish you so many more years filled with love, laughter and blessings. I loved following along on your trip to Perth - I have family there but it's been ooh about 15 years since I went to visit them , but I do have fond memories of that holiday.
    Oh, and is love your new blog banner too - it's just perfect!
    Have a happy week, Joy.
    Hugs xx

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    1. Hello lovely Gilly and many thanks for your sweet caring message! If ever you do plan to visit Perth again I would love for there to be a little corner of time where you and I could meet up 'proper' - how wonderful that would be!
      I'm very happy you like the new header my lovely Tracy did - and did you notice the wee bird up at the front of the address bar - I got all excited when I noticed that that had changed. I have no idea how she did it but I love it!
      A happy week to you too Gilly - Easter will be on us before we can draw breath!
      Love, Joy xo

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  42. HUGE congrats to you both on your 50th(!!) Anniversary. I love the new title bar on your blog - a very professional looking job. Love all your pics of Perth, so glad you had a fab time away...and I loved reading Tracey's sweet comment to you.
    Thanks again, as always, for your kind comments about my mandala and crochet daffodil pattern.
    Amanda x

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    1. Many thanks Amanda!
      Yes, Tracy did a great job on the new header, thank you, and I'm so glad you like it - she's a professional graphic designer so aren't I very fortunate!
      Perth is a beautiful city, as you can see, and Fremantle is also, with stunning old buildings; it was so nice to do a bit of sight seeing after being away for a while.
      Happy Easter, Joy x

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  43. Hi Joy again you have such a warm blog. I have nominated you for the Liebster Blog Award because you and your blog has captured my attention. Thanks for the connection and the inspiration. You can find the nomination here:http://zanashomemade.blogspot.co.nz
    Please feel free to accept or ignore.

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  44. Hi again to you too Zana, and how sweet of you to nominate me, thank you! I am very touched and flattered by your recommendation and would hate to offend you in any way but I was gifted the same award back in August of 2013 so feel I must decline. I really am so thrilled that you would choose me and I'm so happy that you feel inspired by what you find here. If you would like to follow up on my reply to the original award, the post is entitled Liebster Blog Award which you can trace through Blog Archive in the sidebar above, or try the following:
    joyjinkscreations.blogspot.com.2013/8/liebster-blog-award.html
    Wishing you a Happy Easter and hope to see you soon again, cheers, Joy x

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  45. Belatedly ... happy anniversary! And may I say, as I feel sure others already have, that you don't look your age at all. I do know that you're not the oldest blogger ... Jean, of Jean's Knitting (http://jeanmiles.blogspot.co.uk/), is 80, maybe even 81 now!

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    1. Thanks so much Annie, and I will pop over to Jean and say hello to her, well done Jean! J x

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  46. What a lovely post! I so enjoyed all the photos of Perth and the other places you visited, it looks like you had the most wonderful time and were spoilt by your lovely family. You do not look seventy, I have to say - I hope I'm as elegant as you when I hit that age! And happy anniversary to you and your husband, fifty years of marriage is quite an achievement. x

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    1. You're very kind Gillian; thank you for your lovely message and your good wishes! J x

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  47. Oh my goodness, I am just catching up with your blog. Happy 50th Anniversary to you and your husband! What a great milestone. The two of you look quite young for your age. Thank you so much for the picture tour. I hope to be able to visit Perth and Fremantle someday. One of those trips to dream about. I have been to Newport, RI and seen the Americas Cup buildings. I was there many years ago in the week before the Cup competition. It was wonderful to see all of the boats.

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    1. Thanks so much for your lovely message Cathie! It sounds like you have quite an interest in the boats so it would be wonderful for you to have a visit to Fremantle and see the 'other side' of the excitement influenced by the Cup competition - fingers crossed eh! xJoy

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  48. Hi Joy, Happy easter to you. I can see I'm the last person to the party again! Your Perth trip sounded fab, what a lot of lovely arrangements made for you both. I do love a trip to the city now and again. You look so young Joy, you both look like you are glowing with health. Australia must be good right?! I'm wondering is your husband from Australia or did you both emigrate? nosy I know! I think it unlikely I will have a 50th wedding anniversary, unless I meet get married now and live to at least 95! but you never know, take care Heather X

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    1. Hi Heather, how lovely to hear from you again - it does become a bit 'full on' trying to keep up with all the blogger posts doesn't it - I'm running behind again at this time too!
      Thanks so much for saying such lovely things; Jeff and I came to Australia together as a married couple in '65, so we've spent a lot more of our lives here than in Britain!
      Are you putting out for a highly exciting time 'now' Heather? Yeah, big question, and wouldn't all that bring about a few changes - but, as you say, one never knows! xo Joy

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  49. What an absolutely FABULOUS post Joy.. I enjoyed every single word. Loved your pics of Perth, what a wonderful time you had, your family treated you to a right royal stay in 'the big smoke' :) You were so close when you had your meal at Hillarys Boat Harbour, I live less than five minutes away, it's one of my favourite spots to catch up for coffee. I have one thing to say.. if you hadn't let the cat out of the bag there is no way anyone would have guessed that you are about to turn 70, that twinkle in your eye says 'no way' :)

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    1. Many thanks Grace - your kind words mean so much to me!
      It was such a busy day at Hillary's, so many people we could hardly move, but quite the carnival atmosphere! You were enjoying your lovely new grandie around that time ….. how wonderful!
      We always said my lovely Mum had a twinkle in her eye so your lovely compliment means an extra lot to me, thank you! x J

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  50. I do like your new banner very nice design well done to your daughter. A massive happy 50th wedding anniversary how lovely and a great way to celebrate too. Lovely photos of your Grandson.
    You certainly don't look your age...I would never have guessed your young in the way you write too. Hoping to catch up soon with everything, been away for a week over easter.
    All the best to you and your husband xx

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    1. Hello FB, and I do hope your time away has given you the rest and recuperation you needed! Thank you so much for your lovely message and good wishes and we'll catch up soon! xo J

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  51. A huge CONGRATULATIONS to you and your husband Joy, and Happy Birthday for next month. You are as young as you feel and I sounds like you feel young at heart. Plus you both look great.

    Your trip looked wonderful and what a blessing to have such a wonderful family who spoil you on special occasions.
    Jacquie x

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    1. So lovely to have your message Jacquie, many thanks for your kindness! Joy x

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  52. Big Congratulations Joy. Perth looks beautiful and you have a great family. I bet you had a fantastic time. I have been looking over your latest makery and you have been busy with those mandala's, they are fab. I also love your quilt, it's beautiful. I am sooo jealous of all the lovely things you have been making. You are always an inspiration.
    Kelly x

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    1. How sweet you are Kelly, thank you so much, I really appreciate your lovely message!
      Joy x

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  53. Congratulations to you both on your 50th wedding anniversary!! You look (and sound) so young, Joy....you are proof that 'age is just a number'! Your trip sounded wonderful and I loved seeing all your great pictures today!
    Happy week!
    Helen xox

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    1. Many thanks, Helen, for your ever so kind message and good wishes, and I hope your week is going really well too! Joy xo

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  54. Congratulations to you both Joy, on your 50th Wedding Anniversary - you don't look old enough to have been married that long Joy, young at heart and certainly young in person, you both look marvelous!
    It looks like you had a wonderful trip, the city pictures are great, and I must say I really like your daughter's pale pink Thunderbird - that must have been a great ride!
    Thanks for sharing all these happy photos of your trip, I'ms o pleased you had a great time.
    Your crochet is super too Joy - that heart is gorgeous, and the new yarn looks scrummy!
    Have a great weekend!
    Gill xx

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    1. So lovely of you to take time to leave such a lovely message for me Gill - I'm very happy to have it and your good wishes, thank you so much! Joy xo

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  55. How wonderful to celebrate 50 year of marriage, I truly hope that we will be blessed. We have been married 33 years this year so a while to go yet. The crochet heart is just adorable.

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    1. Thank you so much for your lovely message, and I hope you and your hubby reach the big 50 year celebrations too - it's amazing how the years go - and as they say, time passes quickly when you're having fun! Joy

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  56. Happy 50th Anniversary! I really enjoyed reading your post and seeing photos of Perth - such a beautiful city. And I love the wool you bought - such gentle colours. I hope you have plans afoot for your birthday!
    Caz xx

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    1. Thank you so much for dropping by and leaving your kind message Caz, I really appreciate your thoughtfulness. I haven't given much thought to my birthday yet, but I'm sure something nice will eventuate when the time comes round! Joy x

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  57. Congratulations to you both on your 50th anniversary! You have such a wonderful family - what a special holiday you both had in Perth - lovely happy photos - you certainly don't look 70! Wishing you a very happy 70th birthday this May too! Hope you have something lovely planned :)
    Claire xx

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    1. Thanks so much for your kind and lovely thoughts Clare, I really appreciate them very much! x Joy

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  58. Hi Joy, I'm new to blogging stool haven't got the confidence to start my own, but I started to read lots last year whilst nursing my Mom. Your kind comments and lovely posts kept me positive, along with many others when I felt a bit lost. it is lovely to see such a happy post. Glad you had a fab time. Lucy X

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    1. Hello Lucy - I am so pleased that you found help and encouragement through my, and others', posts during a difficult time and thank you so much for leaving such a sweet message! I hope that you will jump in and give blogging a try for it's such a lovely community and you will surely be inspired by the many beautiful friendly folks, caring and sharing; I hope to hear from you again .. .. .. Wishing you the very best, Joy xo

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  59. Thank you for this very special post, Joy. I am so glad you had a happy celebration in Perth! I so enjoyed seeing you with some of your family, and seeing more of your talented stitching, too!

    It is a privilege for me to have met you through your blog, Joy. This post beautifully defines the privilege I feel in not just sharing common interests with you, but in being able to enjoy the sweet Joy you bring to the world. Tracy's words to you along with the delightful work she has contributed to your blog speak volumes about your loving and talented gifts to life, especially to those whose lives touch yours.
    I am so pleased to be among those who celebrate your 50th wedding anniversary and your 70th birthday! May God grant you many more years!

    Love with Hugs,
    Gracie <3

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    1. Lovely Gracie, you're so sweet and have really touched my heart with this message. A huge thank you and blessings on you and yours! Love, Joy xo

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